Movexx offers tips for safe pushing and pulling of loads

Pushing and pulling loads, even when they are on wheels, require a lot of energy and can lead to health issues due to physical overexertion. Muscles and joints in the back, shoulders, and arms are regularly used, leading to physical strain. Therefore, it is crucial to work responsibly. Employers are obligated to ensure that physical strain does not pose a danger to the safety and health of employees. This can be achieved by educating workers on how to safely push and pull, as well as by using smart tools. In this blog, Movexx not only share 10 tips for safe pushing and pulling but also useful tools to facilitate this process.

10 Rules for Healthy Loading and Unloading

• Avoid unnecessary pushing and pulling; use tools that lighten the workload whenever possible.
• Moving heavy loads sensibly takes just as much time as moving them recklessly, so do it carefully.
• Plan in advance how and where the load will be moved, considering potential obstacles along the way.
• Determine the weight of the load beforehand; do not make it too heavy, and ask colleagues for assistance with heavy and large objects.
• Always stand directly in front of the load; never lift, push, or pull with a twisted back, but pivot the feet when needed.
• Identify the center of gravity of the load and find a good balance before beginning the actual pushing and pulling.
• Move the load with both hands, keeping it as close to the body as possible.
• Bend the knees when lifting and placing the load, maintain a straight back, move slowly, and primarily use the abdominal and leg muscles.
• Ensure the path is clear of obstacles when walking with the load; use non-slip shoes on slippery floors.
• Listen to the body and take signals seriously; it knows best what the back, shoulders, and knees can handle.

Physical overexertion costs employers 3 billion euros

It is evident that physical strain in the workplace has serious consequences. With significant percentages of absenteeism—28% for 1-3 months, 31% for 3-6 months, and 16% even longer than 6 months—it is a problem that cannot be ignored. Total sick leave in the Netherlands costs employers over €11.7 billion annually, with €3 billion attributed to physical strain. Pushing and pulling, among other tasks involving rolling equipment, even ranks in the top 5 of work-related risk factors for occupational diseases. A concerning reality that emphasizes the importance of investing in the prevention of physical overexertion.

Reduce physical strain with smart electric tugs

Moving heavy carts and pallets is physically demanding, but smart electric tugs offer the perfect solution to minimize these efforts. Movexx’s tugs are designed to enable employees to maintain good ergonomic posture and perform tasks efficiently. They effortlessly move loads ranging from 50 to 6000 kilograms, eliminating back problems caused by unnecessary pushing and pulling.

Invest in the health and well-being of the team.

For more information, please visit https://movexx.com/.